Mexico and England meet at Estadio Azteca on Monday morning as the Three Lions face sleepless nights and an altitude that will leave the squad exhausted and without much-needed stamina.
Right-back James has missed England's past two matches after suffering a hamstring injury in the closing stages of the goalless draw with Ghana.
James has since been replaced by Djed Spence, a player who was widely ridiculed for his dire performance against the DR Congo earlier this week.
Now, as England struggle in defence for a back-up to James, Jenas has spoken to 10bet about the choice to leave out Trent Alexander-Arnold.
“I think taking Reece James to a major tournament with no real back-up is just ridiculous.
“I love Reece James, I think everybody loves Reece James as a footballer, but taking him on the basis of, “Well, I’ve got Djed Spence that can fill in there.
“I don’t care what anyone tells me, I will never, ever listen to anybody that tells me Trent Alexander-Arnold should not be at this World Cup. He is easily one of our 26 best players.
“How Trent Alexander-Arnold is out of this squad, only he knows. But he’s gambling it all on that because that’s the only reason, from my point of view, why I would really question him.”
England boss Thomas Tuchel told the media on Saturday that James would need a late assessment before deciding if he was fit enough to feature against Mexico. For now, Spence is set to start once more in a selection fans won’t be happy with.